Ivy Tech Celebrates Alumni Transforming Lives Through Education in the 4th Annual Difference Makers Series

The Difference Makers series is a celebration of individuals who create meaningful, positive change within their communities and Ivy Tech, embodying the transformative power of education and perseverance. Each year, Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County honors a unique group of extraordinary people whose stories inspire and uplift. This year’s series highlights an exceptional group of individuals whose educational journeys are as diverse as they are inspiring. Whether beginning their paths at Ivy Tech with an associate degree and advancing to doctorate-level success or returning to earn their associate degree after achieving a doctorate, these honorees demonstrate the lifelong impact of education and their dedication to serving the Muncie-Henry County campus as professionals.

Dr. Sarah Haisley, Ed.D. – Department Chair for Education, Ivy Tech

A Muncie native, Dr. Haisley always knew she wanted to be a teacher. As a first-generation college student, she initially faced academic challenges that led her to step away from her program at a four-year university. However, her determination to continue her education brought her to Ivy Tech’s Muncie campus, where she earned an associate degree in Early Childhood Education. This milestone not only restored her academic standing but also reignited her confidence, paving the way for her to return to a four-year university and successfully complete her undergraduate studies, ultimately earning a doctorate.

Dr. Haisley initially worked as a pre-K to grade 5 teacher. During her graduation open house, her Ivy Tech mentor suggested she continue her education by earning a master’s degree, which would open the door for her to teach at Ivy Tech. At first, Dr. Haisley was uncertain about teaching anything other than pre-K - elementary school. However, after completing her master’s program, she decided to teach part-time at Ivy Tech as an adjunct instructor. When the opportunity arose for a full-time instructor position, she applied and was selected. Since then, Dr. Haisley has remained with Ivy Tech, ultimately moving into her current role as Department Chair for the School of Education.

Serving as one of the community representatives on the Indiana Head Start Association Board of Directors, Dr. Haisley is also the Chair for the First Steps Local Planning Council in southern Indiana. She volunteers extensively with parent-teacher organizations and local childcare initiatives. Additionally, Dr. Haisley serves as one of the advisors for the Alpha Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa at Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County and is the Indiana Regional Coordinator for Phi Theta Kappa.

Drawing from her personal experience as a first-generation college student—leaving a four-year university to attend Ivy Tech—and earning her doctorate during the Covid-19 pandemic while balancing full-time work and family, Dr. Haisley is uniquely poised to offer invaluable support to Ivy Tech students.

“I really try to share with students that Ivy Tech is not something lesser. They [students] are just as capable, and no matter where they have come from or where they're going, this is where they're at now, and it's going to be an amazing experience. They can go as far as they want,” Dr. Haisley said.

Dr. Olufunmilola “Funmi” Olorunda, Ed.D. – Department Chair for Information Technology, Ivy Tech

Dr. Olufunmilola Olorunda goes by Dr. Funmi with her coworkers and Dr. O. with her students. She grew up in Nigeria and moved to the United States over 20 years ago, attending Ball State University where she earned a master’s degrees in information and communication sciences and a doctoral degree in Higher Education with a minor in Information Sciences. She previously had two master’s degrees in communication arts and library and information studies. Her undergraduate was in Mass Communication. During her doctoral studies, her class visited the Ivy Tech Muncie Campus, and she developed a strong fondness for the campus. She eventually joined Ivy Tech working as an adjunct in 2010. She later served as a full-time faculty member before moving into her current role as Department Chair for the School of Information Technology. She became a full professor 3 years ago.

Returning to school after earning her doctorate, Dr. Olorunda was a nontraditional student, having completed her advanced degrees before attending Ivy Tech. This experience gave her a unique understanding of the students she taught, allowing her to connect with them on a deeper level. She understands exactly what they are going through and how to best support them.

"I identify with the students. Throughout my journey, I've always had to go back to school as a nontraditional student, and I see them in me. I understand the challenges they face—the things they juggle to succeed. That’s why I’ve always felt a strong desire to give back," Dr. Olorunda said.

Dr. Olorunda is deeply passionate about supporting women in technology. She partnered with the Ivy Tech Foundation to establish a fund that helps female technology students attend conferences, providing them with valuable networking opportunities. Before this fund was created, Dr. Olorunda personally covered the costs for these students to attend conferences. Additionally, she played a key role in securing the NSF Ivy Works grant, which further supports female Information Technology students.

"I believe strongly in empowering women in technology, and the Women in Technology student group that I was instrumental in starting is a vital part of that. It's not just about providing the skills needed for success, but also creating a supportive network where women can connect, grow, and inspire each other. I’m proud to be part of their journey, whether it’s through funding opportunities, mentorship, or helping to break down the barriers that still exist in the field,” Dr. Olorunda said.

As a member of an all-volunteer committee, Dr. Olorunda helped create the Girl Trailblazers in Tech program, which is designed to excite, inspire, and educate girls in grades 4 through 9 in Delaware County about computer technology. She is a strong advocate for local STEM initiatives and serves on several boards, including the New Castle Career Center’s Advisory Board.

Dr. Chef Heather Pier, Ed.D. – Department Chair for Hospitality, Baking and Pastry, and Culinary Arts, Ivy Tech

Dr. Chef Heather Pier moved around often while growing up, though she was born in Muncie. She attended multiple schools. Her passion for cooking was ignited at the age of 14 when she started working in a kitchen as a dishwasher. Over time, she worked her way up into cooking roles and traveled across the United States, Canda, and Mexico. As a nontraditional student, Dr. Chef Pier returned to school seeking the stability of a position that would not require working varying shifts.

"I took a summer class in the culinary department, which was a new program at Ivy Tech at the time. And I fell in love with the educational side of cooking,” Dr. Chef Pier said.

Initially, Dr. Chef Pier enrolled at Ball State but dropped out after one semester. In 2006, she enrolled at Ivy Tech Muncie and graduated in 2008. She earned her bachelor’s degree in 2010 and went on to complete a master’s degree in Career and Technical Education, followed by a doctorate in Community College Leadership. She chose to pursue her doctorate when her son left for college.

"As a student, I learned the value of hands-on experience in cooking, and now as a teacher, I strive to provide that same practical learning environment for my students," Dr. Chef Pier shared. Her teaching style is influenced by her own educational journey, where she found that practical, real-world experience was key to truly mastering culinary skills.

Dr. Chef Pier has also made a significant impact through her involvement in various leadership roles. As a board member for Muncie OUTreach, she has worked on creating more inclusive and diverse programming for the LGBTQ+ community, helping to provide resources and support to a marginalized group in the region.

Her commitment to service has always been woven into her professional identity, reinforcing her belief that education should extend beyond the classroom and into the community.

In addition to serving as an educational liaison for Muncie OUTreach, Dr. Chef Pier also volunteers with community organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, gerontology programs, and fundraising efforts through food programming and food related events.

Dr. Amy Baize-Ward, Ed.D. – Vice Chancellor for Student Advocacy, Ivy Tech

Dr. Amy Baize-Ward, a Muncie native, graduated from Muncie Southside High School in 1987. She is deeply committed to supporting and uplifting her community. During high school, Dr. Baize-Ward faced challenges due to an eye condition that made reading and comprehension difficult. She chose to focus on sports, which required her to maintain at least a C average. Despite her academic struggles, she persevered and delivered a speech at her commencement ceremony.

Dr. Baize-Ward attended Ivy Tech before it became a state institution and graduated in 1993, back when it was still a technical college. In recognition of her accomplishments, she was honored as the Distinguished Alumni for the Muncie-Henry County campus in 2022.

"As a single mom at Ivy Tech, I often did homework late at night. I remember staff checking in, encouraging me to keep going, and reminding me to spend time with my kids. I strive to provide the same support and encouragement to our students today,” Dr. Baize-Ward shared.

Continuing her educational journey, Dr. Baize-Ward earned her bachelor's degree from Indiana Wesleyan University, master’s in executive development with a focus on Public Service and Adult Education, and doctorate in Adult, Higher, and Community Education, with a focus on Community College Leadership, from Ball State University. Despite setbacks, including having to restart her academic path when her Ivy Tech credits didn’t transfer, she remained resilient and committed to her goal, ultimately achieving a doctorate.

Dr. Baize-Ward is an active leader in her community, serving on various boards and committees. She currently serves as the president of P.E.O. a philanthropic organization that provides funding to women returning to school after facing life challenges. "Community leadership has always been a priority for me because I want to give back to the community that helped shape me. Whether it's through serving on boards, volunteering, or mentoring others, I believe it's important to make a difference and create opportunities for those who come after us,” Dr. Baize-Ward said.

Having worked at the Muncie-Henry County campus for 11 years, Dr. Baize-Ward has served in numerous roles throughout her tenure. In her current position as Vice Chancellor for Student Advocacy, which spans both the Muncie-Henry County and Anderson campuses, she continues to provide the same support and encouragement to students that she received during her time at Ivy Tech.

The student advocacy team, under her leadership, offers services such as disability support, mental health coaching, addiction prevention and recovery assistance, social work services, and vocational rehabilitation. Dr. Baize-Ward also oversees student conduct and Title IX, addressing behavioral concerns and ensuring campus safety while fostering a supportive, non-punitive environment. Her team is dedicated to ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to succeed, both on campus and in the broader community.

The Difference Makers Series was created to honor those who make a meaningful impact in the lives of others and in their communities. Education has the power to transform lives, offering hope and inspiration to all who encounter it. Across Delaware and Henry Counties, Ivy Tech is dedicated to supporting, changing, and improving the lives of residents. The Difference Makers exemplify the belief that education is not just about earning a degree, but about using that knowledge to uplift and inspire others, creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends beyond Indiana and reaches the world.